Throne

ABSTRACT

This invention relates in general to plumbing systems, but more particularly to a toilet system. The principal object of the invention is to introduce a new and innovative way to include pedestals to raise the feet of a user of the toilet to achieve the most efficient alignment of their body to cleanse the body while defecating. This automatic model in this new category of toilets has inherent in its design the feature of having the pedestals encased in the base of the toilet itself until they are needed for defecation. At the touch of a button the pedestals are released into place and can then be elevated to five different levels to achieve the best alignment for the user. In addition, the Applicant has included “spa” features to enhance the experience for the user, however, the Applicant emphasizes that the “spa” features are ancillary and additional and are commonly found in commercial applications around the world. The unique and innovative feature of the complete line of pedestal toilets is that the pedestals are built directly into the base and are encased until needed by the user for optimum

BACKGROUND Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a plumbing system, specifically a toiletsystem, which is a toilet that comes equipped with pedestals builtdirectly into the base of the unit. This creates a new category oftoilets—pedestal toilets—this new line of toilets is a new innovation inthe art and a thorough search of all previous patents will not disclosea system which has offered this feature.

Additionally, this particular invention is the premium model in theseries which offers “spa” features, which are simply additionalfeatures, in addition to offering automatic pedestals which are releasedat the touch of a button. This model offers five different levels forthe user to select to raise the feet of the user to achieve the“squatting” position which has been shown to be the most efficientposition for human beings while in the process of defecation. Further,this unit offers the user the luxury features available at theconvenient touch of a button which are a seat warmer, bidet jet spray,hydro-flush, air freshener, and sound system.

Description of the Related Art

The modern day toilet most commonly used in the western world hasremained the same for quite a long time. There have been numerousattempts to improve the bathroom experience while defecating over theyears. All of the inventions and innovations over the years haverequired the user to employ the use of an additional device to achievethe “squatting” position which has been proven to be the most efficientbody alignment to cleanse the bowels thoroughly. The present inventionrenders obsolete the need to add an additional device to the toiletbecause the toilet comes equipped with pedestals which are builtdirectly into the base. This innovation creates a new category intoilets—pedestal toilets. A thorough search of all commerciallyavailable toilets will not disclose a toilet system which has this newand innovative feature.

In addition, this particular model offers luxury “spa” features whichhave been included as additional benefits available to the user,however, the Applicant asserts and emphasizes that these features areancillary and incidental to this invention. The features have beenincluded to simply make the experience more enjoyable and effective forthe user. The Applicant makes no representations that these “spa”features are either new or unique. Any consumer can check the worldmarketplace and find examples of toilets which possess these “spa”features. There are multiple inventions that are already patented andare available in the market which either facilitate the user with anautomatic flush system or automatic fragrance system etc.

There have been a large number of proposed automatic toilet flushingsystems for use in various commercial and industrial establishments. Asan example, automatic toilet flushing systems, which cause the automaticflushing operation of a toilet after a user leaves the immediateproximity of the toilet is frequently found in hotels, airports, trainstations, and like public use facilities.

The commercially available automatic toilet flushing systems generallyoperate on the principle of using a beam of radiation which can beinterrupted to initiate a circuit operation and when the interruption,such as the person using the toilet system, removes himself from theinterrupting position, a control circuit causes a flushing operation. Abattery-operated automatic toilet flushing system has also beendisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,169,118 dated Dec. 8, 1992, entitled“Solenoid-Operated Battery-Powered Flush Valve”. In this particularsystem, the valve itself is actually powered by a battery and also usesinfrared sensors connected to the battery along with a solenoid operablevalve mechanism. However, the system taught in the '118 patent is againdesigned for commercial or industrial type toilet or urinal use.

Various types of toilet assemblies having an odor mitigation system areknown in the art. An efficient way for odor removal from a water closetis by drawing odorous air from the toilet bowl through the flush rim.Ventilation systems utilizing this air passage have been disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 3,703,010, 4,165,544, 4,583,250, 4,989,276, 5,321,856,and 5,617,590. The system described in the '010 patent includes asuction means in air communication with the airspace between the waterwithin the water tank and the lid of the tank. The suction device iscapable of withdrawing the odorous air that moves from the toilet rimthrough an overflow pipe into the airspace, and subsequently disposingit away from the water closet through an exhaust pipe. Withdrawing theair from the airspace in a tightly closed water tank may create suctionpressure especially when the toilet is flushed. Thus, the '010 systemrequires a regulating valve to reduce suction in the water tank.

Similarly, the flush toilet exhaust systems disclosed in the '856 and'590 patents are also designed to withdraw the odorous air from theairspace above the water level inside the water tank. These systemsinclude a sealing means {'856} patent or a flexible strip {'590} patentthat can be installed at the upper edge of the water tank. The sealingmeans of the '856 patent is a hollow strip being in air communicationwith a hose connector and a blower. The sealing means defines holesfacing the interior of the water tank for receiving the odorous air fromthe airspace. After the odorous air enters the sealing means, it ispulled into the hose connector for remote exhaust. The flexible strip ofthe '590 patent seals the lid of the tank to create an airtight spacefrom which the odorous air is withdrawn. Both systems require a ventdevice to reduce the problem of undesirable suction when the toilet isflushed.

Unlike the patents described earlier, the '544 patent describes a systemthat is designed to withdraw the odorous air from the upper end of theoverflow pipe. This system includes a hollow, open bottom, and avertical sleeve that is positioned over the upper end of the overflowpipe. The lower end of the sleeve terminates below the water level inthe water tank so that a water seal is achieved to provide closedcommunication between the overflow passageway and the sleeve. The systemalso includes a means for creating low air pressure connected to thesleeve so that odorous air is drawn from the sleeve for remote exhaust.The inefficiency in withdrawing the odorous air from the sleeve into theexhaust pipe can be a drawback with this system, because only low airpressure can be applied so that the water within the sleeve is not alsowithdrawn. Yet another system disclosed in the '276 patent shows atoilet system that includes vent channels formed along the base and theback inside of the water tank. The system also includes a vent adaptermounted inside of the passage that directs the flow of ventilating airalong the vent channels to an exhaust fan to the outside atmosphere. Onedrawback of this system is the requirement of a specially designedtoilet bowl and water tank.

Similar to the ventilated toilet systems, several patents have discloseddifferent types of toilet systems that include automatic flushingmechanisms. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,831,670 and 5,369,816 disclosetoilet systems having a weight-activated flushing mechanism. This typeof mechanism includes an electric motor that is activated by the weightof the user sitting on and then leaving the seat. When the motor isactivated, the tripping mechanism trips the flush valve open to allowthe water to flush. A major drawback for the weight-activated flushingmechanism is that it does not operate when the user does not sit down onthe seat. Therefore, when people who normally do not sit down on theseat for a urinal purpose use the toilet, the toilet will need to beflushed manually.

A different flushing mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,384.This mechanism comprises a motion-sensing device positioned in the watertank and aligned with a window in the toilet cover when the cover is ina raised position. The motion-sensing device is operatively connected toa motor that drives an L-shaped lever that is connected to a flappervalve. The flushing system operates when the motion-sensing device isactivated when the user uses the toilet and then moves away from thetoilet. The motion-sensing device charges electric current to the motorwhich drives the lever upward such that the flapper is lifted to openthe valve for the water to flush.

A similar flushing system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,091. Thissystem comprises three functional blocks: an input sensor or switch, alogic control circuit, and an Electro-mechanically operated liquiddispenser or flusher. The whole assembly, which is attached to the innerside of the water tank, is hermetically sealed in order to protect theactuator against moisture and possible corrosion. The movable end of theplunger is with a chain or wire connected to the flush handle and drainvalve. In the flushing system of '384 and '091 patents, most of thecomponents have to be fitted inside the water tank. Possible concerns ofthese systems are in the limitation of fitting all the parts into anexisting toilet system and the need to modify the water tank and thetoilet lid for positioning the motion-sensing device.

So it is safe to say that there are numerous products available on themarket which offer automatic features for the user when using thebathroom and toilet facilities, however, heretofore there has never beena commercially available toilet system offered in the world marketplace,whether for residential or commercial or industrial use which hasoffered the user a toilet which comes fully equipped with automaticpedestals which are built directly into the base of the stool and areattached as one unit. No thorough search will disclose any patents orproducts which offer a toilet system whereby the pedestals are builtdirectly into the toilet and are automatically released at the touch ofa button to raise the feet of the user to achieve the “squatting”position. Additionally, there has never been a toilet system offered inthis art which has automatic, elevating pedestals and also comesequipped with “spa” features for the comfort and efficiency of the userwhile enjoying their bathroom experience.

This invention, although the luxury model in the series, is also veryattractive to serve the disabled population, those who suffer temporaryor permanent disabilities which may preclude easy usage and controlduring the bathroom usage. In other cases, forgetfulness or lack ofattentiveness of impaired individuals may prevent them from manuallycompleting all tasks necessary for hygiene. In these and othersituations, an automatic toilet system like the “Throne” would be asignificant advantage in all bathroom settings.

In many cases, governmental regulations now require the use offacilities which meet certain health standards. Thus, a toilet operationwhich did not require engagement of a handle would have particularattractiveness in these types of environments. Specifically, the U.S.Government Aid for Disabilities Act is a law which would welcome thisadaptation for an automatic toilet system. This system should makecompliance with this law that much easier.

It is to be noted that as per the Applicant's knowledge, none of theseprior art methods have been found to be completely suitable to meetthese needs and are cumbersome and non-durable. Hence, the Applicant ofthe present invention proposes to resolve and surmount existingtechnical difficulties and to eliminate the aforementioned shortcomingsof prior art. Therefore, the object of the “Throne” invention is todeliver a toilet system which comes equipped with automatic pedestalsbuilt directly into the base of the stool. Additionally, this toiletsystem includes “spa” features which enhance the bathroom experience andare also automatic and are activated with the touch of a button.

SUMMARY

In light of the disadvantages of the prior art, the following summary isprovided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovativefeatures unique to the present invention and is not intended to be afull description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of theinvention can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims,drawings, and abstract as a whole.

According to a first embodiment, the “Throne” toilet system is a toiletsystem that includes a toilet which has inherent in its design theinnovative feature of including pedestals for the feet of the user inthe base of the toilet. This precludes the user from needing to outfitthe toilet with any additional devices to achieve the “squatting”position which has been shown to be the most efficient placement of thespine to cleanse the bowels completely and most efficiently.

A second embodiment for this invention is that the pedestals which arebuilt into the base are automatic pedestals which are summoned at thetouch of a button and which retract back into their compartments in thebase of the toilet when defecation is not needed so that they areconveniently recessed into the base of the toilet and do not present animpediment to a user and their mobility near the toilet when they arenot needed.

A third embodiment for this invention is that this toilet system alsoincludes “spa” features which can be found in many commerciallyavailable toilet systems. There are five features and they are activatedby the user by pressing buttons which are conveniently located on thebase of the toilet. These features are namely: (1) seat warmer (2) bidetjet spray (3) hydro-flush (4) sound system and (5) air freshener.

Therefore it can be seen that the right combination of featuresincorporated in the device of the present invention produces surprisingresults that are not produced by prior art.

This summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some exampleembodiments, so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects ofthe subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciatedthat the above-described features are merely examples and should not beconstrued to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter describedherein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of thesubject matter described herein will become apparent from the followingDetailed Description, Figures and Claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements throughout the separateviews, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated inand form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrateembodiments of concepts that include the claimed invention, and explainvarious principles and advantages of those embodiments.

Image 1 shows the top front view of the invention;

Image 2 shows the left view of the invention;

Image 3 shows the front view of the invention;

Image 4 shows the right view of the invention;

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures areillustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily beendrawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements inthe figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to helpimprove understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

The apparatus and method components have been represented whereappropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only thosespecific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments ofthe present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with detailsthat will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein.It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may beembodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed hereinare not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis forteaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention invirtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.Moreover, the Applicant asserts that this new and innovative system intoilet design actually creates a new category in toilet design—thepedestal toilet—which the Applicant asserts should be the new standardin toilet design worldwide.

According to the Mayo Clinic, many people in the world do not possess asafe way to use the toilet and bathroom facilities around the world topromote maximum health and hygiene. Medical doctors, naturopaths, andassorted holistic health professionals have pointed out the hazards ofthe conventional toilet for years. There is empirical evidence thatconventional toilet systems do not promote proper hygiene for the user.The Applicant asserts that the present invention will surmount thepresent difficulties found in the current state of the art and willoffer a solution to overcome the present difficulties.

In any residential or commercial structure the bathroom has to commandthe attention as one of the most vital places in the building and forgood reason. A safe, comfortable, and convenient toilet system providesthe basis for maximum health and hygiene for all humans and the bathroomis the place of importance to utilize the system. The present inventiondelivers a new standard in the art—the pedestal toilet system—but inaddition, this luxury model also offers “spa” features which serve tohighlight the system for maximum comfort for the user.

The first embodiment is that the system comes equipped with pedestalswhich are included with the basic toilet as they are built into the baseand attached as one unit. This luxury model is automatic and thepedestals are released by touching a button to activate the pedestals onboth sides of the base of the stool. The pedestals have the ability toraise the feet of the user to five different levels to achieve the mostefficient position for the user.

In another embodiment of the present invention, this luxury pedestaltoilet system offers a hydro-flush feature at the touch of a buttonwhich allows a user the ability to flush the toilet without touching ahandle. This automatic hydro-flush system will remove all of thestoppages, impurities and waste to clean the toilet bowl effectively.

In another embodiment of the system the invention provides a bidet-likejet spray to thoroughly clean all of the users private areas. Once againthis feature is automatic and at the touch of a button.

In another embodiment of the system is an automatic seat warmer toprovide ultimate comfort to the user while on the seat.

In another embodiment of this system is an automatic sound system thatthe user activates by pressing a button and the music entertains theuser while using the bathroom to enhance the experience.

In another embodiment of this system is an automatic air freshener thatthe user can release at the touch of a button to minimize any unpleasantor noxious odors associated with proper cleansing of the body.

Hence, the “Throne” luxury pedestal toilet system is an advancement inthe art as it provides inclusive in the design of the system a set ofautomatic pedestals which are built into the base and are attached tothe base as one unit. This automatic version in the series comes with“spa” features which have been highlighted in this application todescribe the increased bathroom experience for the user. The Applicantasserts that the automatic, elevating pedestals and the additional “spa”features will make this toilet system one of the most prized possessionsin every household and building where it appears.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader toquickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It issubmitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpretor limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in theforegoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features aregrouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamliningthe disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than allfeatures of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claimsare hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claimstanding on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

This invention relates to a toilet system comprising:

I: a new and innovative way to include pedestals to raise the feet of auser of the toilet to achieve the most efficient alignment of their bodyto cleanse the body while defecating. II: feature of having thepedestals encased in the base of the toilet itself until they are neededfor defecation. At the touch of a button the pedestals are released intoplace and can then be elevated to five different levels to achieve thebest alignment for the user. III: the system includes “spa” features toenhance the experience for the user, the unique and innovative featureof the complete line of pedestal toilets is that the pedestals are builtdirectly into the base and are encased until needed by the user foroptimum convenience and mobility.